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FAQs
Enquiring minds want to know. Below you will find answers to questions that we get asked about the most. Can’t find an answer? Let us know.
Can I put my full name and address onto a MedicAlert® Medical ID?
Engraving personally identifying information comes with some serious risks which need your informed consideration. We will provide a Privacy Waiver Form containing information for your consideration on request.
Is MedicAlert® Foundation a Charity?
MedicAlert® Foundation is a New Zealand registered Charity - CC25227. Members benefit directly from the Charity through reduced fees as a consequence of the Foundation receiving goods and services at significantly discounted rates and via donations of money. In addition, charities do not make profits so do not pay tax on profits. All money received by the Foundation stays with the Foundation for its own use.
I’ve found someones lost MedicAlert® Medical ID, how do I return it?
We provide a free lost and found service. If you find a MedicAlert® Medical ID, return it to the Foundation, PO Box 40028, Upper Hutt 5140. We will locate the member and forward it onto them at no cost. For privacy protection, we cannot release members personal information.
Can I update my information that first responders see?
Members can access their information anytime, just click sign in, or call Membership Services who can review your information with you over the phone once they have completed a security verification. Just remember, health information must come from your Health Provider. Any other information, it's important you update it regularly.
How does my donation help?
MedicAlert® Foundation New Zealand is a charity, receipt of donations is vitally important to help build awareness and educate the wider community about MedicAlert®'s Service Supported and clinically validated Medical ID's.
In an emergency situation where time and obtaining the appropriate help is needed, could be the difference between life and death, or suffering harm that significantly reduces your future quality of life.
A Good Samaritan, First Responder or Health Practitioner, who immediately looks for, recognises and knows they can trust use of a persons MedicAlert® Medical ID and Services, can make all the difference.
Your support to build awareness and educate the wider community, will be most gratefully received.
How can I make a donation?
You can donate directly on our website or call us on 0800840111 using a visa debit card or credit card.
How do I become a member?
There are four ways to become a member:
- Online: Click on the Become a Member button
- Phone: Call us on 0800840111 to start the enrolment process over the phone
- Mail: Print and complete the Enrolment Form, then scan or mail it back to us
- *GP: Your General Practitioner can electronically refer you
*applies to General Practitioners using Medtech32 Practice Management Software
I only have a minor medical condition, are MedicAlert® Services right for me?
Absolutely! The service behind MedicAlert® is what makes it so valuable. First responders can have otherwise unavailable access to a digital emergency record, loaded with your emergency contacts, NIH number and full health information.
Supporting or sponsoring our most vulnerable members
The Foundation supports Kiwis of all ages, including newborn children with Heart problems through to frail seniors, children or adults who are blind, deaf or have intellectual or other disabilities. Ongoing Compassionate Donations or Sponsorships are crucial to enable the Foundation to fund the support for these members, who may not have the financial means to fund their own Membership and Services.
I only need a bracelet, why should I become a member?
We are a society of members providing an emergency health information service that is accessed using a MedicAlert® Medical ID, Medical IDs do not stand alone. Often when a person becomes a member they choose one of several free Medical ID options which are available in addition to many others they can purchase which may better suit their personal preferences. In all cases, every Medical ID forms part of the service provided by the Foundation.
What is the 24/7 Emergency Hotline Service?
The 24/7 Emergency Hotline is a service provided by MedicAlert® Foundation New Zealand through it's Service Provider Whakarongorau Aotearoa. This provider also delivers the Health New Zealand national telehealth service called Healthline.
The Hotline Number (+64 4 4722 999) can be called in New Zealand or from Overseas if you are travelling, is engraved on your MedicAlert Medical ID and is printed on your MedicAlert Wallet Card.
It offers immediate emergency access to your critical identity and health information, including your Emergency Contact and Health Provider, by First Responders and Good Samaritans needing assistance. When the Hotline is called due to an accident or medical emergency, Whakarongorau will call your listed Emergency Contact to let them know, so they can provide support for you.
You can view the ‘Emergency Record’ accessible by the 24/7Emergency Hotline Service, when logged into your MACM – Member Account. Click on ‘Overview’ to locate the button.
Please check with your Emergency Contact that their contact details have not changed. You will need their phone numbers and address. Providing an email address is also very helpful, it allows the Foundation to touch base with them, if need be, from time to time. Please update your information as soon as possible by:
· Logging into your MACM – Member Account using your Health NZ ‘My Health Account’ Login details. A sign-up option to get a My Health Account Login is also available. Go to: www.medicalert.nz , click login.
· Contacting Membership Services ph: 0800 840 111. e. Service@MedicAlert.nz"
What are the ‘terms of agreement’ of membership, between the Foundation and its members?
MedicAlert® Foundation is a member owned service organisation that acts to support its members. The Member Terms Statement is the basis of contract or agreement between the Foundation and its Medical Identification Members. A copy is provided on the enrolment form, available 24/7 on the Foundation's website, or upon request.
What if I don't have an NHI?
The Foundation is listed by Government regulation on Schedule 2 of the Health Information Privacy Code. The Foundation is therefore authorised to issue NHI Numbers if a person presents to the Foundation without an NHI Number. The Foundation is connected to the Ministry of Health Digital NHI Service and performs NHI related update services on behalf of its Members.
Can I gift someone a MedicAlert® Medical ID?
Yes, they will need to become a MedicAlert® Member first.
The free ID options included in enrolment don't suit me, how much do premium Medical IDs cost?
Our premium products range from $300-500 NZD. Each product will have a unique cost depending on the material and the weight of the product (e.g. 14ct Gold, Silicone Sports Bands).
Does my MedicAlert® Medical ID come with a warranty?
Yes, there is a 1 year warranty on all products following the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act.
Which Medical IDs do you recommend for children and toddlers?
We offer a variety of products including silicone and velcro sports bands. However, our stainless steel petite emblem comes highly recommennded for babies and toddlers.
My Medical ID has been broken, how do I get a replacement or repair?
Please contact us on 0800840111 before sending a product for repairs. Alternatively, you can order new products at any time over the phone or online.
How long will it take to receive my MedicAlert® Medical ID?
Once we receive your medical information, it takes up to 10 working days to process. For delivery, we use an overnight courier service with a signature required. While most deliveries arrive the next business day, please allow 2–3 working days for NZ Post to deliver your product.
Couldn't find an answer?
If you couldn't find what you were looking for, don't worry! Our support team is here to assist you. Reach out with any questions or concerns. We're dedicated to providing the help you need.
